President Andrzej Duda led a solemn ceremony in Krakow, marking the 14th anniversary of the tragic Smolensk plane crash that claimed the lives of 96 individuals, including President Lech Kaczyński and his wife Maria.
President Duda spoke with heartfelt sincerity, stressing the significance of the day. “Today, we once again honour their memory, pray for their souls, and reflect on the profound impact of this tragedy,” he declared. “It stands as one of the most poignant and tragic moments in our nation’s history, reminding us of what truly matters.”
The Smolensk tragedy unfolded on April 10, 2010, when a Polish Air Force Tu-154M aircraft crashed near Smolensk, claiming the lives of numerous Polish dignitaries, including President Kaczyński, who was en route to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the Katyn massacre. The loss reverberated deeply, resonating throughout the nation.
In his address, President Duda underscored the solemnity of the occasion, stating, “We gather at monuments, in cemeteries, to honour and remember those who perished on their journey to pay respects to Polish officers in Katyn.” He emphasized the unity among the delegation, led by President Kaczyński, highlighting their unwavering commitment to honouring Poland’s fallen heroes.
“For us, preserving historical memory, particularly the memory of Polish heroes, such as those murdered in Katyn by the Soviets, is of paramount importance,” President Duda affirmed. “That is why individuals from diverse political backgrounds, united in purpose, travelled together on that tragic day to pay homage to our fallen heroes, who sacrificed for a free, independent Poland.”
President Duda also paid tribute to the sacrifice made by those who perished in service to their country. “Today, we honour not only the Polish officers who were victims of Soviet brutality in Katyn but also those who embarked on that fateful journey, giving their lives in service to our homeland.”